Browns, Randall in early extension talks

The Cleveland Browns are in the early part of the process of discussing a contract extension with free safety Damarious Randall.

According to reports the Cleveland Browns and Damarious Randall are in the early stages of discussing an extension. Randall is in the final year of his contract. Cleveland picked up the fifth year option on Randall and are paying him just over $9 million this upcoming season. Locking up Randall would go a long way towards building stability on the roster. A concept which has not exactly gone Cleveland’s way in the past.

Damarious Randall became an icon for Browns fans everywhere with just one play. Randall intercepted a pass against the Cincinnati Bengals and directly handed it to former coach Hue Jackson. There was the possibility that Randall could have returned this interception for a touchdown, but it appears he would rather stick it to Hue one last time. This was one of the most talked about plays in all of football last season. For some it made them realize just how much the team did not like their former head coach.

Pro Football Focus ranks Randall as the 30th best safety and with an overall grade of good. Randall intercepted four passes last season and successfully defended nine total. The four year veteran also combined to have 85 total tackles, 72 of which were of the solo variety.

With the deal that sent Jabrill Peppers to New York in exchange for Odell Beckham Jr., the Browns need someone who is familiar with his teammates in the defensive backfield. Right now that person is Randall. There are other defensive backs returning this season, but none played safety.

When the two sides agree to a deal it will certainly help the roster building process in Cleveland. It will show others that the team appreciates their best players and that they will be rewarded for their good play.